Page 56 of Shattered Dreams

Live streaming from the fans was part of the plan. We’re hoping any media hype we get around the song helps with getting signed at the new label.

Belle locks her eyes on me, and her fingers start expertly gliding along the keys. I add in my guitar and start singing. The first verse is just me, and then Belle comes in on the next. Once her soft and clear voice mixes with my deep and raspy tone, I know we have the crowd hooked. They’ve gone silent, and I know they’re hanging on every word.

That’s the thing about rock fans. They’ll let you know immediately if they’re not feeling what you’re giving them. Silence is just as telling.

Belle and I wrote a love song. Most of the words are hers with little input from me, but it tells our story. At least the beginning of it. A story of two people that have loved each other silently throughout the years and finally get together.

The song ends on one last note from my guitar. I don’t even think. Emotions overcrowd my brain. Grabbing Belle by the back of her neck, I bring her lips to mine and kiss her like no one is watching. She lets out a small gasp before returning my kiss.

The crowd is going wild, chanting for more.

“That was ‘Always and Forever!’ Tag us in your posts!” Cal tells the fans. “You’ve been amazing Glasgow! Goodnight!”

I put my guitar down, take Belle’s hand, and leave the stage. Hopefully not for the last time.

“Holy shit! We need to send that to Logan right now!” Cal yells the moment he sees us, ushering us both into a sweaty hug.

“It’s like five in the morning for him,” I point out.

“Don’t care. I have to send it, or I might die,” Cal says, and I honestly believe him. The man is vibrating.

“I sent the video to your email. I booked your flights. You leave tomorrow at four pm,” Nate says as he passes us and starts directing the staff packing our equipment.

“I need my phone!” Cal yells as he darts away towards the dressing rooms. I hear him yelling sorry as he probably knocks people over on his way.

“I’m going to stop him before he calls Logan too,” Mav says, following Cal.

“You guys coming out with us tonight?” Willa asks.

I look down at Belle, who is still smiling, but I know she has to be as tired as I am.

“Nah. I think we’re going to get some sleep before we pass out standing up.”

“You’ve earned it,” Willa says before leaving us too.

Belle snuggles into my side, her hand still firmly clasped in mine. “I’m exhausted and wide awake at the same time.”

I chuckle. “That would be the combination of the adrenaline high and lack of sleep.”

“Can we get snacks and then go to sleep?” Belle asks me with a yawn.

“Nate! I need a car!” I yell before scooping Belle up into my arms. She yelps in surprise but throws her arms around my neck and kisses my cheek.

“You got it, Kai!” Nate yells back.

“Can I take you on a date tomorrow?” I ask her. I’m a little nervous. I don’t think she’ll say no, but this is still brand new, and I’m half afraid I’m dreaming.

“A first date in Scotland with the hottest guy I’ve ever seen? How could I say no?” Belle teases.

“Hottest guy you’ve ever seen, huh?”

“I take it back,” she says and rolls her eyes.

I tickle her side, causing her to squirm.

“Okay, okay! I would love to go on a date with you.”

I lean down and capture her lips with mine. I groan from the contact, taking the kiss deeper. Every touch from her ignites a fire in my body.

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